Messi and Inter Miami Kick Off World Tour with Draw Against El Salvador
San Salvador, El Salvador –
Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated 2024 preseason debut for Inter Miami CF took place on Friday night at Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador, El Salvador, as the team faced off against the El Salvador national team in a scoreless draw. The match marked the first appearance of Messi, along with fellow former Barcelona standouts Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, since joining the MLS club last year.
A Star-Studded Lineup and a Global Tour
The arrival of Messi and his renowned teammates has generated immense excitement among Inter Miami fans and soccer enthusiasts worldwide. The quartet, collectively known as “Inter Miami’s Big Four,” played only the first half of the preseason opener, showcasing their skills and chemistry for a limited time.
The match against El Salvador marked the beginning of Inter Miami’s extensive preseason world tour, spanning over 25,000 miles and several countries. The team will embark on a series of exhibition games, providing fans around the globe an opportunity to witness the talents of Messi and his teammates up close.
Messi’s Brief Appearance and Missed Opportunities
During his time on the pitch, Messi displayed glimpses of his brilliance, drawing cheers from the Salvadoran crowd with every touch of the ball. He had two notable chances to score in the first half, but his free kick attempt just before halftime was blocked by a crowd of defenders, and his shot on goal in the 35th minute was saved by El Salvador goalkeeper Mario Gonzalez.
Team Substitutions and Facundo Farias’ Injury
As the second half commenced, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino made several substitutions, including the withdrawal of the “Big Four.” Facundo Farias, a promising young player who returned to the roster this season, replaced Messi, but unfortunately, he had to be carried off the pitch on a stretcher just before the 70th minute due to an apparent knee injury. Inter Miami finished the match with 10 men as a result of this setback.
Limited Playing Time and Preseason Management
Given the demanding schedule of the preseason tour, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino has emphasized the need to manage players’ minutes carefully. He stated that some players would have limited playing time in the first two preseason games to ensure their readiness for the upcoming season. This decision sparked some debate among fans and media, but Martino maintained that the team’s long-term success and fitness were paramount.
A Glimpse of the Future and the Road Ahead
Despite the brief appearances of Messi and his teammates, the match against El Salvador offered a glimpse of the potential that Inter Miami possesses. The team’s global tour will provide further opportunities to showcase their skills and build chemistry in preparation for the 2024 MLS season.
With the addition of world-class talent and the guidance of experienced coach Tata Martino, Inter Miami aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming season and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Major League Soccer.
Call to Action:
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness Messi and Inter Miami’s global tour live! Check out the team’s official website for ticket information and upcoming match schedules.